¿Por qué se mantiene encendida la luz de presión de los neumáticos?

Driving can be a pleasant experience, but when the tire pressure light suddenly turns on, tranquility can turn into confusion and concern. This warning light is a sign alerting us to issues with the tire pressure. However, there are times when, despite having adjusted the pressure properly, the light continues to glow in its red neon. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this phenomenon and the solutions you can take to ensure that your vehicle remains safe and efficient.

When the tire pressure warning light comes on in your car’s dashboard, it can be a disconcerting experience. Most of the time, this indicator is designed to alert you about possible low pressure in your tires. However, there are occasions when, despite having adjusted the pressure correctly, the light remains on. This article examines the main causes of this problem and offers practical solutions that you can implement.

Common causes of the light being on

One of the main reasons why the tire pressure light stays on is actual low pressure in one or more tires. When the air pressure falls below the recommended level, the sensors of the tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) are activated. A sudden change in temperatures, especially during winter, can cause the air to contract, and thus, the pressure to decrease.

Another common cause may be physical damage to the tires, such as punctures or cuts, which allow air to slowly escape. In some cases, a leak may be so subtle that it may not be obvious to the naked eye, so it is always advisable to perform a visual and manual inspection of the tires that includes checking the pressure with a gauge.

TPMS sensor problems

A less obvious problem that can cause the light to stay on is a faulty sensor in the TPMS system. These sensors can fail or simply not be calibrated correctly. If you have checked the tire pressure and it is correct, but the light remains on, you may need to take your vehicle to a specialized shop for a system check.

Sometimes, the light triggers due to false alarms. This can happen after a wheel change, such as switching between summer and winter tires, where the sensor does not recognize the pressure correctly. It is important that after any change in the tire system, the sensors are calibrated to ensure their proper operation.

Practical solutions to the problem

To reset the tire pressure warning light, you can follow some steps. First, check the tire pressure using a reliable gauge. If the pressure is at optimal levels but the light remains on, try resetting the TPMS. This can often be done through a button on the dashboard, depending on your vehicle model.

If after all these steps the light continues to be illuminated, the most recommended course of action is to visit a specialized workshop. Automotive specialists can diagnose if a sensor needs replacing or if there is another fault in the system. Ignoring the tire pressure warning could lead to serious safety issues on the road.

Regular maintenance to avoid problems

Performing regular maintenance on your tires is essential to prevent the pressure light from unnecessarily activating. This includes monthly checks of the tire pressure and a visual inspection for damage. It is also beneficial to keep track of the aging and wear of the tires, as this can affect their performance and, consequently, the appropriate pressure.

For more information on how to maintain your tires and optimize their performance, refer to articles such as proper maintenance offers long-term fuel savings.

The tire pressure light, or TPMS, is a crucial indicator in our vehicles that alerts us to potential problems with tire pressure. However, on many occasions, this warning can remain on even after we have checked and adjusted the tire pressures. This can cause confusion and concern among drivers.

One of the most common reasons for the light staying on is a defective or poorly calibrated tire pressure sensor. These sensors are responsible for monitoring the pressure and sending signals to the car’s computer. If the sensor is not functioning correctly, it can send incorrect information, causing the light to remain active even when the pressure is adequate.

Another possible cause is temperature variations, which can affect tire pressure. During cold weather, it is common for pressure to drop, which can activate the warning light. Even when the pressure has been adjusted, the light may not turn off immediately, indicating that it is necessary to confirm the system’s status or even reset it.

Tire damage or punctures can also be responsible for the light staying on. A small hole could result in a slow air leak, undetectable to the naked eye, but enough to activate the TPMS. In these cases, it is essential to conduct a thorough inspection of the tires.

Finally, a false alarm may be another reason why the tire pressure light does not turn off. Sometimes the system may mistakenly identify a problem, and even though everything is in order, it is advisable to consult the vehicle manual or a professional to resolve this situation.